Imagine waking up one morning to find a bear in your yard, wreaking havoc and causing damage to your property. It may sound like a wild scenario, but bear sightings in residential neighborhoods are becoming more common. So, what happens if a bear damages your home or vehicle? Does homeowners insurance cover bear damage state farm? Let’s dive into the details to find out!
Bear-proofing Your Home and Your Homeowners Insurance
What Damages Are Covered?
As with most insurance coverage questions, there isn’t a simple yes or no answer. However, in the case of bear intrusions, most property damages would likely be covered. For example, damages caused by the bear, such as breakage of glass, damages to the building, or harm to personal property, would typically be covered by your homeowners insurance policy.
However, there is one key exclusion to keep in mind. Damage caused by nesting, infestation, or discharge of waste products or secretions by insects, birds, rodents, or other animals may not be covered. While it’s an unpleasant thought, damages related to this exclusion may not be included in your coverage.
Specific Coverage Scenarios
Here are some specific scenarios to help you understand what damages may or may not be covered by your homeowners insurance:
- Property Damage: A standard homeowners policy generally covers bear damage, such as torn siding, shattered windows, and doors, as well as harm to interior items like furniture. These claims would be subject to your insurance policy’s deductible.
- Boats, Swimming Pools, and Hot Tubs: If you have these items in your yard, they may not be covered by your homeowners policy. They might require separate policies or could be excluded since they aren’t physically attached to your home. However, fencing that is considered part of the attached property to your home may be covered.
- Vehicle Damage: If you hit a bear with your car, it’s treated similarly to hitting a deer or any other animal. If you have comprehensive coverage, your automobile insurance will likely cover the damage caused by the bear. This includes both physical damage and vandalization. However, if you only have liability or collision coverage, this type of damage may not be covered. It’s interesting to note that from 2020-2021, there were 2,350 State Farm claims for bear collisions, and an estimated 13,687 for the entire insurance industry. California ranked as the number one state for these collisions.
To get a clear understanding of the bear-related coverages included in your policy, it’s always best to consult your insurance agent or company for clarification.
Take Action if You Have Bear Damage
If you do find yourself facing bear damage, it’s crucial to take the right steps to ensure a smooth claim process. The first thing you should do is contact your insurance agent or insurer. They will guide you through the necessary steps to file a claim and help you understand what damages are covered under your policy.
Remember, bear damage may be unexpected, but being prepared and knowledgeable about your homeowners insurance coverage can give you peace of mind. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance provider for guidance in any bear-related situation.
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